CTA continues Red Line South Project with public input

In anticipation of the start of next year's Red Line South project, the Chicago Transit Authority held meetings with various community and neighborhood groups including local chambers of commerce, block clubs, faith-based groups and other organizations to answer their questions, listen to their concerns and suggestions.

"Having an open and productive dialogue with our community partners is crucial to ensuring this project proceeds as smoothly as possible," said CTA President Forrest Claypool. "Feedback from these community meetings is helping shape and improve the CTA's plans for the Red Line South reconstruction project in 2013."

The meetings thus far have focused on the entire range of project considerations, from shuttle bus service and traffic management to security issues. The CTA has made several changes and additions to its project plans based on feedback and ideas generated at these community meetings.

Community meetings will continue throughout the remainder of 2012, providing project updates and the opportunity for additional feedback about the project as it moves forward.

"We have been pleasantly surprised at the significant outreach that CTA has done regarding the Red Line South project, not only to the community-at-large, but to the small business community," said Melinda Kelly, executive director of the Chatham Business Association. "CBA is encouraged by the serious commitment CTA has shown to getting the word out through its presence at community meetings and the four meet-and-greet sessions it has held between disadvantaged business enterprise subcontractors and potential prime contractors."

Beginning in May 2013, the Red Line South project will completely rebuild the 10 miles of the line from just north of Cermak-Chinatown to 95th Street. The project will offer faster commutes, a smoother ride and more reliable service.

To complete the project in the shortest amount of time and at the lowest cost, the south Red Line will completely close for five months. During the closure, CTA is planning extensive alternative service, including free shuttle buses from closed stations south of 63rd Street, Red Line trains using Green Line tracks, and significantly expanded bus service on existing bus routes.